CREATING MODERN ARTIFACTS ~ Juxtaposing Ancient and Modern Symbols for
the Purpose of Adornment. I am fascinated by the combination of organic
form, ancient ethnic symbols, and current urban designs. Jewelry allows
me to use the body as a canvas to decorate in a playful manner. Most
of my pieces are designed to be reversible to enhance the wearer's
adornment options. I am dedicated to producing handcrafted pieces with innovative
design motifs utilizing a high level of craftsmanship.

ART NOUVEAU

.999 FIne Silver & 24K Gold

MERMAIDS DELIGHT

.999 FIne Silver & 24K Gold Aquamarine Gemstones

To create my Fine Silver and 24K Gold Jewelry I
usually work from my drawings and make textures from polymer clay using
a technique called Tear Away. Using these textures I roll my designs
into Metal Clay, which consists of microscopic particles of fine
silver mixed with a nontoxic organic
binder. Once
textured, the Metal Clay is then formed into lentil beads,
pendants, charms, earrings, etc. After sanding and refining I fire the
Metal Clay in a kiln. The nontoxic organic binder burns away and a
beautiful piece of .999 fine silver jewelry remains. The piece is then
polished and often 24K gold is added by a ancient Korean technique
called Keum-boo. This gilding technique uses thin sheets of 24K gold to
form a permanent diffusion bond with the fine silver. An electron
exchange is created by heat and pressure to create this permanent
diffusion bond. I enjoy working with Metal Clay as it is an eco-friendly
product, made from recycled silver.